The Athletics tinkered with their lower-level Minor League affiliates on Wednesday by flip-flopping Steve Scarsone and Aaron Nieckula. Scarsone will now move up to manage Class A Stockton, while Nieckula will head Class A Kane County.
In his first season as skipper in the A's farm system in 2009, Scarsone led Kane County to a 76-64 record and a playoff berth. Prior to joining the A's, he spent two seasons managing in the D-backs' organization.
Nieckula was at the helm for the High A Stockton Ports in '09, with the club finishing 61-79. He began his coaching career as hitting coach for the Kane County Cougars from 2004-05, then managed the club from 2006-08. In his four seasons as manager, Nieckula has a 275-281 record, including playoff appearances in '06 and '07.
In addition, Nathan Brooks was named trainer for Stockton, while Brian Thorson will serve as trainer for Kane County. All other Minor League coaching and staff assignments remain the same.
